Priyanka Tiwari
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In a landmark development, the United States Department of Energy (DoE) has authorized Holtec International to transfer small modular reactor (SMR) technology to India. This approval marks a significant advancement in the India-US civil nuclear partnership, facilitating the construction and design of nuclear reactors in India.
Key Details of the Approval
Date of Approval: March 26, 2025.0
Authorized Entities:
Holtec Asia (Holtec's regional subsidiary).
Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd.
Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
Regulatory Framework: The authorization falls under the "10CFR810" regulation of the US Atomic Energy Act, which governs the transfer of nuclear technology to foreign nations.
Conditions and Assurances
The authorization includes specific conditions to ensure the peaceful use of the transferred technology:
Peaceful Use Commitment: The Indian government has assured that the technology will be used exclusively for peaceful nuclear activities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards and not for military purposes.
Reporting Requirements: Holtec is required to submit quarterly reports to the DoE detailing the technology transfer activities.
Validity Period: The approval is valid for 10 years, with reviews scheduled every five years.
Implications for India's Nuclear Sector
This approval addresses previous regulatory barriers that restricted US companies from manufacturing nuclear equipment or conducting design work in India. The collaboration is expected to:
Enhance India's Nuclear Expertise: Facilitate the localization of SMR manufacturing and bolster India's capabilities in nuclear reactor design.
Modernize Reactor Technology: Transition from traditional heavy water reactors to advanced SMRs, aligning with global nuclear energy trends.
Economic Growth: Potential expansion of Holtec's workforce in Gujarat, contributing to economic and technological advancements in India's nuclear sector.
Challenges and Legal Considerations
Despite this progress, certain challenges remain:
Legal Hurdles: India's Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, has previously deterred foreign investment due to concerns over supplier liability in the event of a nuclear incident.
Regulatory Amendments: Changes to the Atomic Energy Act are necessary to permit private companies to participate in nuclear power generation, a move the Indian government has committed to addressing.
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